Last-minute call-up Jordan Heading found his footing right when it mattered most as Strong Group squeaked past Libya’s Al Ahli Tripoli, 91-89, for its fifth straight win in the 2024 Dubai International Basketball Championship on Thursday morning, Jan. 25, at the Al Nasr Club. 

With the hard-earned victory, Strong Group swept its group assignments heading into the quarterfinal round of the tournament. 

There, the Dwight Howard-bannered team could face reigning champion Al Riyadi of Lebanon, which, interestingly, handed the Philippines a quarterfinal loss in the previous edition. 

The 27-year-old guard Heading erupted for 12 of his 19 points in the second period all off his outside shooting as Strong Group hung tough to a slim 51-50 lead at the break. 

Former NBA star Howard poured 10 of his 17 points in the closing period on an efficient 7-of-9 shooting from the inside which went with eight rebounds, two assists and two blocks. 

Meanwhile, reigning UAAP MVP Kevin Quiambao also came through with a 17-point outing highlighted by four threes made and even scattered three rebounds and three assists.  

Andre Roberson and Andray Blatche, for their parts, contributed 13 and 10 markers, respectively. 

With two minutes left in the game, Howard’s jumper that gave Strong Group an 89-82 advantage was suddenly erased as Al Ahli Tripoli went on a last-gasp 6-0 run to pull itself within just one, 89-88. 

The Philippine squad, however, displayed poise even as it struggled to cruise control until the very last second of the match that saw Heading’s two free throws pretty much assured the visiting side’s victory.

Al Ahli Tripoli’s heavily relied on its starters in the losing cause which accounted for 81 of its overall points. 

Naseem Badroush led the mob for the Lebanese side with 27 markers, while Mohamed Sadi delivered 22 points on his end.